John Taiaroa
Rail Operations Manager
Sydney,NSW
Summary
- Highly skilled Planning Supervisor with a strong background in rail and intermodal operations. Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing teams to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable terminal performance. Skilled in coordinating freight movements across multiple terminals, managing system outages and equipment issues, and maintaining strict compliance with operational and safety standards. Known for a strong customer service mindset—working closely with key clients and the Pacific National Intermodal Business Unit to deliver on-time, high-quality service outcomes that meet customer and business expectations. Alongside a long-standing rail operations career, I am also an entrepreneur and brand developer, having founded ForgeFlow Essentials a premium sports-nutrition brand built on performance, compliance, and innovation.
Overview
40
40
years of professional experience
Work History
Sydney Freight Terminal – Planning Supervisor
Pacific National (formerly NRC)
01.2017 - 06.2025
- Act as Terminal Superintendent overseeing Sydney Freight Terminal performance and Operations.
- Mentor and develop Shift Supervisor team for excellence and safety compliance.
- Coordinate train operations with Intermodal Business Unit during track possessions and Force Majeure events.
- Manage reefer refuelling logistics and contingency plans during disruptions.
- Oversee rosters, shift coverage, and long-term absence planning.
- Compile monthly safety reports, ensuring transparency and continuous improvement.
- Lead incident management, investigations, and site protection.
- Trained staff on operational procedures and best practices.
- Conduct evacuation drills; serve as Fire Marshal and PTW/Hot Work Permit issuer.
- Administer disciplinary processes professionally.
- Deliver key operational and safety improvement projects.
- Responsible for handling disciplinary actions such as verbal warnings or suspensions.
Shift Manager
Pacific National (formerly NRC)
01.2007 - 01.2017
- Manage daily operations to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
- Coordinated shift schedules to optimize workforce efficiency.
- Led team meetings to communicate updates and address concerns.
- Resolved customer inquiries and escalated issues when necessary.
- Developed and maintained positive working relationships with staff, customers, and vendors.
- Position skilled staff in key areas throughout the shift to optimize terminal operations.
- Manage all train arrivals and departures to ensure daily KPIs, DIFOT, and on-time departures are achieved.
Assistant Shift Manager
Pacific National (formerly NRC)
01.2002 - 01.2007
- Supervised daily operations and ensured adherence to safety protocols.
- Managed inventory levels and organized supplies for efficient workflow.
- Facilitate training schedule to develop and upskill terminal operator's
- Monitored equipment performance and reported maintenance needs promptly.
- Responded promptly to customer inquiries regarding product availability.
- Ensured compliance with health and safety regulations in the workplace.
Oasis Planner
National Rail Corporation (NRC)
01.2000 - 01.2002
- Monitored Oasis System to ensure correct wagon loading; assisted Shift Manager Terminal Operations.
- Certifications: TLIB3018A Conduct Full Train Examination, TLIC3017 Shunt Rolling Stock, TLILIC0016 CB Licence.
Terminal Operator
National Rail Corporation (NRC)
01.1993 - 01.2000
- Compiled train documentation (X2010), performed roadman duties, forklift and gantry crane operations, conducted train examinations and shunting.
Transport Manager
Simmonds Lumber Pty Ltd
01.1988 - 01.1993
- Managed fleet operations for Sydney Metro deliveries and coordinated heavy haulage to regional and interstate locations.
- Supervised yard staff to maintain accuracy, safety, and service standards.
Yard Supervisor
Simmonds Lumber Pty Ltd
01.1985 - 01.1988
- Supervised yard staff, coordinated order dispatch, verified orders, packaged items, and prepared shipping labels.
Education
High School Diploma -
Pacific National
Sydney, NSW01.2002
Skills
- Leadership & Operations Management
- Development and mentoring
- Roster management
- Long-term absence planning
- Safety & Compliance
- Toolbox meetings
- Safety engagements
- Promoting a proactive safety culture
- Accountability
- Customer service
- Stakeholder engagement
- Service issue resolution
- Freight priority coordination
- Planning and project execution
- Terminal Management System (TMS)
- Port shuttle train plan
- Locomotive fuel saver
- Precision Train Scheduling
- Container Double Stacking
Recognition And Awards
- Sydney Freight Terminal Employee of the Year
- Vince Graham Nomination – National PN Employee of the Year (2003)
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Sydney Freight Terminal – Planning Supervisor
Pacific National (formerly NRC)
01.2017 - 06.2025
Shift Manager
Pacific National (formerly NRC)
01.2007 - 01.2017
Assistant Shift Manager
Pacific National (formerly NRC)
01.2002 - 01.2007
Oasis Planner
National Rail Corporation (NRC)
01.2000 - 01.2002
Terminal Operator
National Rail Corporation (NRC)
01.1993 - 01.2000
Transport Manager
Simmonds Lumber Pty Ltd
01.1988 - 01.1993
Yard Supervisor
Simmonds Lumber Pty Ltd
01.1985 - 01.1988
High School Diploma -
Pacific National